The debate around banning social media for children under 16 has divided parents across the country. Some see it as government overreach. Others believe it is long overdue. In this episode of the 3L's Podcast, we tackle one simple question. Are children ready for social media, or have adults underestimated the damage it causes?

We share why our family had already decided our children would not have social media before any government proposal was announced. We discuss the growing pressure children face through Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat, from cyberbullying and online grooming to unrealistic beauty standards, violent content and the constant need for approval.

The conversation goes beyond social media. We challenge modern parenting and ask whether too many parents are trying to become their children's friends instead of providing guidance, boundaries and protection. We also explore whether governments are stepping in because families are struggling to manage the risks on their own.

One of the most powerful moments comes from a real-life dilemma. A mother discovers her 14-year-old son has secretly been using Instagram for eight months. The hardest part is not the account itself. It is finding out her husband knew all along and deliberately kept it from her. We discuss what happens when parents stop presenting a united front and how broken trust between parents often creates confusion for children.

We also reflect on our own family, our children's screen time, the difference between our older and younger children, and how social media affects our marriage, attention and family life.

Whether you agree or disagree with the proposed ban, this conversation will challenge how you think about parenting in the digital age.

Main points discussed:

• Should children under 16 be banned from social media?

• Why we chose to keep our own children off social media.

• The dangers of cyberbullying, grooming and online influence.

• Why screen time needs boundaries.

• Are parents becoming friends instead of parents?

• Why children still need discipline and accountability.

• The importance of parents making decisions together.

• A dilemma involving a hidden Instagram account and broken trust in marriage. • How phones and social media affect family relationships.

• Practical ways to encourage healthier habits at home.

What are your thoughts? Should the UK introduce a social media ban for under-16s, or should the decision remain with parents? Share your opinion in the comments.

💌 Send us your dilemmas & questions!

✨ Subscribe for more episodes on love, marriage, money & building a lasting legacy!